Thailand prepares to participate in the 79th Cannes Film Festival bringing a delegation of films, actors, and industry professionals to showcase and exchange ideas “BamBam GOT7” joined the red carpet and the opening ceremony of the Thailand Pavilion as the representative of Thai cinema and actor in the blockbuster horror film “The Confession of Shaman.” Meanwhile, the Ministry of Culture held a Director talk to exchange knowledge with Thai filmmakers and introduced a Cash Rebate incentive of up to 20% to support foreign companies hiring Thai digital content producers for the first time.
Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, stated that the Ministry of Culture (MOC) has a primary mission to promote the film and video industry both domestically and internationally under the concept of “Content Thailand.” This is achieved through collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop quality works and propel the Thai film industry onto the international stage. Thailand integrates efforts among the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Commerce, and Ministry of Tourism and Sports to drive the content industry and support Thai entrepreneurs in the global market at events such as the 79th Cannes Film Festival held from 12 to 23 May 2026 in Cannes, France.
The Ministry of Culture will participate in key activities including the opening ceremony of the Thailand Pavilion promoting the film and video industry on 13 May 2026, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Supachai Sutthampan. On 14 May 2026, Minister Sabida Thaiseth will chair a Director talk at booth number 112 in the Village International area, highlighting the creativity of Thai professionals and the growing international role of Thai cinema.
The Minister of Culture added that on this occasion, the Ministry congratulates the films “9 Temples to Heaven” and “What do you seek in the dark?” which were selected to screen at the 79th Cannes Film Festival. Specifically, “9 Temples to Heaven” was selected for the Directors’ Fortnight while “What Do You Seek in the Dark?” was chosen for the Critics’ Week, marking significant achievements for Thai cinema on the global stage.
Additionally, Thailand organized Thai Pitching events allowing Thai filmmakers to present projects to foreign investors and partners. Three films were selected for this activity: The Weight of Ash, So Long, Maesalong, and The Apocalypse of Bee. A Sit-down Lunch Talk provided an opportunity for Thai representatives to network and exchange ideas with international film festival delegates, foreign filmmakers who have shot in Thailand, and buyers who have previously purchased Thai films. The Producer Networking – Thai Cinema Showcase Cannes 2026 event connected producers, directors, investors, and distributors from abroad with Thai industry players. The Ministry also collaborated with leading global entertainment media “Deadline” under the “Thai Cinema Global Showcase 2026” banner, presenting five outstanding Thai film companies and projects including Possessed, Gohan, 9 Temples to Heaven, God Skin, and 1 After One. Support was also provided for Thai short film directors participating in the Cinema de Demain program.
Moreover, a special highlight this year is “BamBam-Kantapimuk Phuvakul” also known as BamBam GOT7, who, as a representative of Thai cinema and actor in the major horror film “The Confession of Shaman,” will attend the 79th Cannes Film Festival. BamBam will participate in various events including the Palais des Festivals red carpet, the A Sit-down Lunch Talk, the Thailand Pavilion opening ceremony, and Thai Night.
The Minister of Culture also stated that another important highlight this year is Thailand's announcement of a new incentive to promote foreign hiring of Thai digital content production. Foreign companies contracting Thai digital content producers with a minimum project value of 5 million baht will receive Cash Rebate support of up to 20%. This incentive covers comprehensive digital content production services such as animation, visual effects, games, and post-production, aiming to elevate Thailand’s creative media industry to international standards.
Participation in the Cannes Film Festival is a crucial step to raise awareness of the Thai film industry, build confidence among international partners, and increase opportunities for Thai works to gain continuous international recognition.
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